The OpenBeam Kossel Pro is build using the OpenBeam Construction System

Kickstarter seems awash with 3D printer projects at the moment and the OpenBeam Kossel Pro is one of the latest. However this one sets itself apart with a unique construction technique which allows for modular flexibility in a 3D printer design.

About a year ago Terence Tam had his OpenBeam Construction System project fully funded on Kickstarter and the Kossel Pro is the first product that utilizes it. Components were designed to be modular and reusable so that the design can evolve and benefit from the economies of scale of mass production techniques.

Tam partnered with Johann Rocholl, the creator of the Rostock 3D printer, to create a new version using the OpenBeam system called, Kossel. After working on the design of the Kossel and larger Kossel Pro for the past six months they have now launched their Kickstarter project.

The Kossel Pro has a cylindrical build area of 250mm dia x 250mm height

The 3D printer features an groundbreaking design

All parts are injection molded and are designed to be compatible with both the Kossel and Kossel Pro, and the extruder body, end effector, ball joints and the carriages will be reusable between the two machines. The machines will be intentionally over-engineered with commerical linear ball recirculating rail and the arm joints will use ball bearings.

Build Area: Cylindrical Build Area of 250mm Diameter x 250mm Height

Linear Actuator resolution: 0.2mm / full step, 1/32″ Microstepping

Extruder: OpenBeam designed Dual Use extruder body. Includes parts for both standard NEMA17 stepper mount and geared pancake motor. Extruder can be configured for both direct drive and bowden drive.

Hot End: Testing so far had been done with genuine J-Heads from Brian Refsnyder; if stretch goal is reached, we will be testing our own full stainless steel hot end design.

The OpenBeam Kossel Pro is completely open-hardware, similar to the RepRap 3D printer, and backers pledging over $900 will get a full Kossel Pro kit which includes the electronics, extruder, motors and heated bed.